HOW TO CHOOSE A CONTRACTOR – QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE HIRING

Are You Licensed? Make sure the contractor is properly licensed. All contractors should be licensed. Make the contractor prove it by either showing you the license or looking on the Department of Labor and Industry website. Being licensed is the law. If a contractor can not produce a valid license, DO NOT HIRE THEM! There is no need to be shy. Legitimate and honest businesses will have no problem providing the information.

Do You Carry General Liability Insurance? Make sure the contractor carries general liability insurance. This type of insurance protects your property in case of damage caused by the contractor and/or his employees. The insurance company will pay for the cost of replacing and/or repairing any damage that occurs.

Will You Provide Me With A Written Lien Waiver? Your contractor should provide you with a written lien waiver at the end of the job. This is a legal document which says you the homeowner have paid the contractor in full for the services rendered and the contractor waives his right to place a mechanic’s lien on your property. If during the course of construction you receive any Notice to Owner documents form material suppliers or sub-contractors, it would be prudent to ask the contractor for a Final Release of lien form each one prior to paying the contractor his final draw. It is always a good idea to consider hiring a NARI or NAHB contractor. In most cases, both organizations only attract conscientious contractors interested in bettering the industry and in weeding out unprofessional contractors. In order to become a member, the contractor’s background and references are thoroughly investigated.

Will You Pull All The Required Building Permits? Make sure your contractor pulls all required permits. This is very important. When a contractor pulls the required building permits, you know things will be done to “code”. Also many home-owners insurance policies require pulling a permit on any major remodeling to keep your home property covered. Not all contractors will do this. Many prefer not to pull permits because of the time involved and the “hassle” with the inspectors. Some contractors may ask you to get the permits because they are unlicensed or the work is outside of their license. A reputable contractor will permit every job where a permit is required. IF YOU PULL THE PERMITS FOR YOUR OWN HOME, YOU ARE THE CONTRACTOR!

Do You Guarantee Your Work? Your contractor should guarantee his work for at least one year from date of completion. Some contractors guarantee their work for longer periods.

Who Will Be In Charge Of The Job? It is important that your contractor visits your job on a regular basis and is in contact with their subcontractors and employees. If you choose the right company for the job they will outline where your and their responsibilities lie.

Will You Provide Me With Written References? A good contractor will be happy to provide you with references. You should look for a well established contractor who can give you several customer references from the last six months to one year. Most contractors will only use the good references, so ask for a list of subcontractors and call them to make sure they get paid.
Copyright © 2007 Attics to Basements Building and Renovation All Rights Reserved • Designed and Hosted by: Robin Ludwig Design